CITY OF RENTON WASHINGTON

July 2023 

Family First Community Center opens

Center brings needed services and programs to our community

Renton is now home to a first-of-its-kind community center, with the opening of the Family First Community Center (FFCC) last month.

 

“Opening the Family First Community Center shows what can happen when agencies, local government, non-profits, and private donors come together to bring a vision to life,” said Mayor Armondo Pavone. “Inside will be a supportive and inclusive environment helping individuals and families in our community thrive and reach their full potential.”

The 21,000-square-foot facility resulted from a partnership between former Seattle Seahawk Doug Baldwin Jr.’s Family First Community Center Foundation, the City of Renton, Renton School District, and HealthPoint, a network of non-profit community-based health centers. Additional financial support came from county, state, and federal grants, and from across our community, including corporate and individual foundations, companies, and individuals.

FFCC is located next to Cascade Elementary School (16200 116th Ave SE, 98058) on land donated by the school district. It brings a much-needed holistic approach to area residents, who comprise approximately 25% of Renton’s population (with 10.9% living below the poverty line) but have long needed more resources. In addition, nine Renton schools serving 4,300 students are within a three-mile radius. A tenth school will open this fall.

HealthPoint will provide medical, dental, and behavioral health services, recreation, education, and wellness programming.

Center providers will offer after-school programs and classes; youth and adult sports; group exercise; personal training; financial literacy classes; health education, cooking, and nutrition classes; and activities for youth, adults, families, and seniors. Renton School District will offer STEM classes to Cascade Elementary School students.

For more information on all the Family First Community Center offers, please visit their website, familyfirstrenton.org.

Our Renton / March 2023

Mayor's Update

Mayor Pavone celebrates our diverse community, reviews the legislative session, and looks ahead to his State of the City address

• pdf copy

Mayor Armondo Pavone wrote the following for his monthly Mayor’s Memo in the Renton Reporter.

For those of you I haven’t met in person, my name is Armondo Pavone, and I’m honored to serve as the Mayor of the City of Renton.

I’ve spent my whole life in Renton and have operated a small business downtown since 1985. Our city is at its greatest when we come together and celebrate the diverse backgrounds and cultures that make our community so robust and welcoming.

We’ve celebrated that diversity in the last two months. We held the city’s first Lunar New Year celebration and designated Jan. 22 as Lunar New Year Day in Renton. We also proclaimed Feb. 6 as “Ted Rodriguez Day” and honored Ted for 40-plus years of civic contributions by presenting him with a Key to the City.

February was Black History Month, and we celebrated with a proclamation accepted by Renton Technical College President Dr. Yoshiko Harden and Franchesca ‘Fancy’ Vargas of Elevate PR Management.

Meanwhile, I am proud of the work our Mayor’s Inclusion Task Force, Equity Commission, and our newly formed Equity, Housing, and Human Services Department do to increase access and communication across many cultures. I appreciate their dedication to our community.

Legislative Update

With the state legislature in session, I spent three days at the capitol last month as part of City Action Days, an event by the Association of Washington Cities. It was an excellent opportunity to advocate in person for legislation to help us achieve the needs of our constituents — from infrastructure funding to public safety.

In face-to-face meetings with ten of our legislators from six different legislative districts, I discussed our current challenges regarding drug possession laws. I lent my support in finding solutions that encourage accountability through deferred sentencing for those who successfully complete treatment. I also testified in favor of Senate Bills 5536 and 5467, which propose changes to meet our goals for public safety. When government works best, it is a collaborative effort between local, state, and federal levels. Strong relationships are key to accomplishing more for Renton.

State of the City on March 21

Mark your calendars for my first State of the City address on Tuesday, March 21, 6 p.m. at Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center at Renton High School. This will be a free event; tickets are available at rentonwa.gov/sotc. All are invited.

I look forward to highlighting what we’ve accomplished across all city departments and sharing insight into what we’re working on and where we’re headed.

You can find regular updates from me on Facebook (@mayorpavone) or follow the city (@cityofrenton) on Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, or Twitter. Not on social media? Our email newsletter, This Week in Renton, is an excellent source for upcoming events and news. You can find links to these publications and pages on rentonwa.gov/memo.

Do you have a question or an idea for a future column? Reach out to [email protected].

Armondo Pavone, Mayor of Renton

Community Calendar

Renton Chamber Spring Fling & Auction
March 18, 5–9:30 pm
Renton Pavilion & Event Center
233 Burnett Ave. S

Help support community projects, human services, clean ups, networking, and more. gorenton.com/visit/happenings

Music Sings, Music Dances! Spring Concert
March 19, 2 pm
Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center
400 S 2nd St.

Enjoy an afternoon of music with conductor Michael Simpson and the Renton City Concert Band. $10 adults, $7 students & seniors. rentonwa.gov/events

State of the City
March 21, 6 pm (Doors 5:15 pm)
Renton IKEA Performing Arts Center
400 S 2nd St.

Mayor Armondo Pavone presents a look back on what the City of Renton has accomplished and a forward-looking preview of the 2023 pipeline. Reserve a seat at rentonwa.gov/sotc.

Renton Downtown Partnership Spring Clean
April 1, 9–11 am
Check-in at Cheers, 201 Williams Ave. S

Help pick up litter on the streets of downtown. Registration info at rentondowntown.com/event.

Shred-a-thon and Rx Drug Take Back
April 15, 9 am–12 pm
Renton Memorial Stadium
405 Logan Ave. N

Bring household documents to shred and turn in unused prescription medications. See details at rentonwa.gov/shredathon.

Dragon Dash 5k/10k Fun Run & Walk
April 15, 10 am
Starts on Wells Avenue S (under Erasmus)

Open to competitive runners, fun runners, walkers, and families. After the run, kids can participate in a dragon egg hunt and try their luck at the Sword in the Stone. Register before April 7 to receive a long-sleeve t-shirt with your registration. rentonwa.gov/dragonregister

Save the Date

Recycle Event: Metals & Styrofoam
May 13, 10 am–2 pm
Renton Technical College North Parking Lot
NE 6th Place & Monroe Ave. NE

Keep waste out of landfills. Recycle scrap metal, appliances, and polystyrene foam (commonly called Styrofoam). For details on accepted materials, go to rentonwa.gov/recycleevents.

Our Renton / February 2023

City budgets $812,000 for human services support

64 local providers will receive funding

• pdf copy

RENTON’S BUDGET FOR 2023 AND 2024 contains $812,000 in human services funding. The City Council approved this increased funding which local and regional providers will use to assist members of our community.

“This allocation demonstrates our commitment to those most in need of our help,” said Mayor Armondo Pavone. “My thanks to the city council for their unwavering commitment to our community and the resident-led advisory committee, who identified the needs and recommended the agencies who could provide the most help.”

The Human Services Division coordinated the application process and executed the distribution of funds. The division is within the city’s newest department, Equity, Housing, and Human Services (EHHS). EHHS has united multiple divisions dedicated to improving residents’ health and livability by funding resources and streamlining providers’ application and distribution processes.

The city received applications from 91 providers for this funding cycle. The Human Services Advisory Committee spent months thoroughly reviewing applications and recommended funding for 64 human services providers. For convenience and to reduce multiple applications, providers submitted applications using the Human Services Funding Collaborative, a collection of 16 cities in King County. The Collaborative application process allowed providers to enter their information once and have it sent to each member city. Joining Renton in the Collaborative were the cities of Auburn, Bellevue, Burien, Covington, Des Moines, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kenmore, Kent, Kirkland, Redmond, Sammamish, SeaTac, Shoreline, and Tukwila.

The applications were divided into six priority areas: Basic Needs, Connector Services, Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Services, Economic Opportunity/Self Sufficiency, Health and Wellness, and Homeless/Housing Services for review. The Human Services Advisory Committee used a 15-point matrix incorporating priority and equity as part of the review process.

Once an application is executed, quarterly reporting is required to track and ensure Renton community members receive services. Data collected from 2021-2022 indicated primarily women and children were served. The reporting also includes powerful stories illustrating the positive impact these services provide to our community.

Allocating funding and working with service providers are the first steps in providing help. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please have them contact the city’s Human Services Division at 425-430-6600.

Black History Month

Tour Renton’s African American sites

AS PART OF THE CITY’S CELEBRATION of Black History Month, lifelong Renton residents John Huston and Benita Horn serve as your guides to the remarkable history of Renton’s African American residents and their contributions to the community. Travel with them to discover the center of their community, the effects of development, local dignitaries, and more.

For example:

• Do you know where the first African American community in Renton was located?

• Do you know who is buried at Greenwood Cemetery? (Okay, this one is easy!)

• Do you know who the Highlands Post Office is named after?

• Do you know how Heritage Park got its name?

John and Benita answer these and many more questions during their interactive presentation. In addition, the city’s website has more Black History Month celebrations listed at rentonwa.gov/bhm.

Community Calendar

Renton High School Multicultural Show
Feb. 10 & 12, 6 pm, Sunday 1pm
Renton High School, 400 S 2nd St.

Featuring performers from a variety of cultures as well as traditional fashions from around the world. Tickets $5 at door or online.

Unity & Perseverance Open Forum Discussion
Feb. 18, 12:30-4 pm
Tower #2, The Hyatt Regency Southport, 1053 Lake Washington Blvd N

Discussion centered around Black culture and community. Refreshments provided. Hosted by Renton-King County Alliance for Justice.

Melanin Magic Disco
Feb. 18, 8 pm–Midnight
Tower #2, The Hyatt Regency Southport, 1053 Lake Washington Blvd N

Disco event celebrating Black history and current members of the Black community who have continuously given their time and resources. Tickets at eventbrite.com.

Veterans Memorial Park Tile Application Deadline
Feb. 28, online

To recognize an honorably discharged U.S. military veteran this coming Memorial Day, be sure to submit an application by Feb. 28 at rentonwa.gov/vmp. To receive a paper copy, call 425-430-6600 or email [email protected].

Our Renton / January 2023

Happy New Year!

Mayor Armondo Pavone looks ahead to 2023, a year that will bring many positive changes to Renton

• pdf copy

This season is a time to look forward to the new year and also look back at the past year and what’s been accomplished. During 2022, we set the groundwork for several exciting projects in 2023.

We broke ground on Family First Community Center about one year ago. We’re now about one month from the grand opening. The center will bring essential services and programs to the Cascade/Benson Hill neighborhood. It’s also an excellent example of how public and private sectors can work together to benefit a community. I’m excited about the opportunities the center will bring to our community. I’m also very grateful for the contributions of our partners: HealthPoint, First Financial Northwest Foundation, Renton School District, and Doug Baldwin’s Family First Foundation.

This year will see two new educational programs open in Renton. First, the tuition-free Bezos Academy will call the North Highlands Neighborhood Center home. In addition, an Environmental Science Center will be housed in the main building at Liberty Park.

Our work will continue to ensure downtown Renton is a “drive-to, not drive-through” destination. The downtown just earned Main Street designation giving businesses access to resources and tax credits. We’re also pursuing federal funding to study the best way to repurpose the Renton Pavilion Event Center. We envision it becoming the Logan Street Market, an active and inclusive public space with room to support small businesses, especially women- and minority-owned businesses and those representing historically disadvantaged communities.

Your safety will continue as a priority in 2023. Chief Schuldt and the men and women of the Renton Police Department will have access to the technology, tools, and staffing necessary to perform their duties safely and professionally.

Funds generated by House Bill 1590 will continue to support housing and homelessness initiatives. FDCARES, a collaboration between Renton Police Department and Renton Regional Fire Authority, is one such program. It provides our first responders with new resources when responding to mental health and addiction calls. FDCARES also helps people navigate health and mental health care systems and connects them to social services and substance use treatment.

We are also using HB1590 funds to develop affordable housing. We’ve already earmarked $1.5 million for Sunset Gardens, a 77-unit Renton Housing Authority (RHA) project. RHA also secured $8 million in public funding with our help. In addition, our Equity, Housing, and Human Services Department is actively working to identify additional programs.

You will see us focusing more on community engagement. We’ll add staff in several departments and link existing software to better utilize data. Finally, our community survey will return. All these steps are designed to anticipate your needs.

In addition, take a class, join an activity, or shop local. All benefit Renton. Along the way, if you see something amiss, report it to us via Renton Responds. Let’s be a community that is active, responsive, and responsible.

I wish you and yours a happy and prosperous new year as we partner together to make Renton the place where families and businesses thrive.

­—Mayor Armondo Pavone

City Council set 2023 committee assignments

Renton City Council has set committee assignments for 2023. Valerie O’Halloran will serve as Council President. Ed Prince will serve as the President Pro-Tem.

COMMUNITY SERVICES
1st Monday, 4 p.m.
Carmen Rivera, Chair
Kim-Khánh Văn, Vice Chair
James Alberson, Member

FINANCE
2nd & 4th Mondays, 4 p.m. Ruth Pérez, Chair
James Alberson, Vice Chair
Kim-Khánh Văn, Member

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
2nd & 4th Mondays, 5 p.m.
Ed Prince, Chair
Ryan McIrvin, Vice Chair
Ruth Pérez, Member

PUBLIC SAFETY
3rd Monday, 4 p.m.
Kim-Khánh Văn, Chair
Ed Prince, Vice Chair
Carmen Rivera, Member

TRANSPORTATION
1st & 3rd Mondays, 5 p.m.
Ryan McIrvin, Chair
Ruth Pérez, Vice Chair
Ed Prince, Member

UTILITIES
1st & 3rd Mondays, 3 p.m.
James Alberson, Chair
Carmen Rivera, Vice Chair
Ryan McIrvin, Member

Our Renton / December 2022

Budget Adopted

City Council approves mayor's budget for 2023 and 2024

Mayor Armondo Pavone's budget for 2023 and 2024 was passed unanimously by the city council last month.

“My thanks to the council and our staff for their work during the budget process,” he said. “We also benefited from the diverse and critical community input provided by my Budget Advisory Committee. Their ideas and feedback helped sharpen our focus.”

The committee’s input was in addition to that provided by residents and conversations with. Councilmembers and city staff. In addition, it reflects the priorities of the mayor and city council, as stated in the city’s 2023–2028 Business Plan.

The mayor focused on four primary areas in developing the budget: public safety, business development and downtown revitalization, human services, and communication.

The budget calls for $581.2 million in expenditures and $584.5 in projected revenue over the next two years.

Among the highlights:

• Four additional commissioned police officers to create a new policing district in the downtown core. Their presence will help restore a sense of safety downtown and throughout the city by enabling more time to patrol and engage with our residents and businesses.

• Additional code compliance inspector and three new park maintenance workers to improve the city’s appearance and prevent crime. The latter will lead encampment cleanups on city-owned property and perform landscape maintenance explicitly designed to assist in crime- prevention efforts. These positions will impact the city’s visual appeal and create a bridge with our Human Services service providers and programs to affect those more vulnerable community members.

• Contract with FDCARES, a partnership between Renton Police Department and Renton Regional Fire Authority, to provide new ways to respond to emergency calls for those suffering from mental health and addiction issues.

• Funding increased by $500,000 to direct service support for rental assistance, utility bill debt forgiveness, and emergency feeding programs. This funding is in addition to the nearly threefold increase in the city’s human and social services funding in the last two years.

• Additional staff to increase our connection, accessibility, and responsiveness with all community members. The new positions include a communications & engagement manager in the police department, an equity manager in Equity, Housing, and Human Services, and additional city communications and engagement staff.

• Funding to better apply available data. Using this data allows us to make informed decisions, increase transparency, and provide easily accessible information to the community.

Like our residents, cities also deal with increasing costs for goods and services. To help pay for the initiatives and services in the budget, the council passed ordinances increasing tax rates.

“We’re very aware of the effect any increase in taxes has on a family’s budget,” said Mayor Pavone. “We feel our budget provides a balance between access to the most requested services without a dramatic increase in taxes.”

Rates for water service remain unchanged for the next two years. Wastewater rates will increase by 3% per year and 4% per year for surface water.

The increases are in response to increased operating and construction costs due to inflation and increased costs for labor and benefits. In addition, two major capital improvement projects, the Kennydale Lakeline Sewer Upgrade and the Monroe Avenue NE and NE 2nd Street Infiltration Facility Improvement, will receive funding.

For a typical single-family residence, the monthly increase for city water, wastewater, and surface water utility services is $1.58 for 2023 and $1.63 for 2024.

“Strong partnerships and relationships throughout our community make Renton successful,” said the mayor. “We will continue to work with individuals and agencies that go above and beyond for us, just like we aim to do for them. That’s what makes Renton great.”

Start the new year with a bang! Or a brrrrrrrrr!

Bring your friends and family and usher in 2023 with a dip into Lake Washington from the south beach at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park. Polar Bear Plunge returns after a two-year absence. Sunday, Jan. 1, 10 a.m.

Register for winter recreation activities

Registration for winter recreation classes and activities opens on Dec. 19 at rentonwa.gov/register.

Our winter edition of Let’s Go Renton! includes a complete list of activities and events. Find it at rentonwa.gov/recreation.

• Community Events

• Dance & Music

• Sports Leagues & Classes

• Youth Camps & Workshops

• Adaptive Recreation

• Emergency Preparedness

• Seniors 50+ Activities & Resources

Our Renton / November 2022

Preparing for winter

City crews started their work in early October

It’s as natural as birds flying south for the winter.

Each year during the first week in October, the men and women in the city’s Public Works Street Maintenance Division start their preparations for winter weather.

Their meticulous preparation is vital as they respond to ice and snow at a moment’s notice, working around the clock to keep your streets passable and safe.

Their preparation covers all aspects of their response:

• Sand, salt, and anti-icer supplies are checked and replenished.

• Meetings are held to explain procedures to new hires; veteran drivers share experiences.

• Plows and sanders are attached to the city’s 11 dump trucks. Anti-icer tanks are loaded on three other trucks.

• Drivers take their plow trucks on their assigned routes to identify potential hazards that could be hidden by snow.

When the forecast calls for snow, the crews will treat major routes with anti-icer to keep ice and snow from bonding to the pavement. This greatly aids when plowing.

Once snow hits, the plows are on our roads around the clock, in overlapping shifts. Plows are distributed across the city as evenly as possible based on hills, major arterials, priority locations, and routes.

We prioritize main streets, secondary arterials and collectors, bridges, schools, hospitals, fire stations, and bus routes. The city will also put down sand, salt, or a sand/salt mixture on roads to aid traction and melt snow.

Winter weather will also affect Republic Services’ collection schedules.
Weather and road conditions may prevent the safe collection of garbage, recyclables, and organics. If your scheduled collection day is missed, garbage and recyclables will be collected the Saturday immediately following the missed days, weather permitting. Organics will be collected on your next regular collection day. Extra materials are collected at no additional charge. Please move your carts away from the street and off the sidewalk so our plows do not push snow onto them.

Our city website has winter-ready tips to help you prepare your family, home, and vehicles for snowstorms and cold weather at rentonwa.gov/wintertips.

Our Renton / October 2022

Don Persson honored

Senior Center renamed to honor his 53 years of service

The city honored Don Persson’s five decades of distinctive commitment to community by renaming the senior center the Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center.

“It’s very appropriate we name the senior center after Don,” said Mayor Armondo Pavone at the celebration. “Taking care of our seniors was always at the top of his to-do list. He was an exceptional advocate, generously giving his time and talents.”

The center was packed with family, friends, and many current and former city officials. Photos of his 53 years of service to Renton residents decorated the center. The celebration included a short program, an unveiling of the new sign design, and a barbecue lunch—a poignant reminder of Don’s legendary cooking and catering skills, which he shared at numerous city events.

Don was best known for identifying a problem and finding a solution. An example is the annual Thanksgiving dinner for seniors, which he created and masterminded for 26 years. He saw that the four-day holiday weekend made it difficult for seniors to find food and companionship. His planning not only resulted in a hot, sit-down meal but also provided take-home meals for seniors to enjoy over the weekend.

“He was an amazing father, grandfather, and husband,” said Lisa Berreth, his daughter. “He taught me to laugh very loudly and often, believe in myself, and know that there wasn’t anything I couldn’t do. He loved us unconditionally, and the world was better because he was in it.”

Former Renton Mayor Denis Law remembered his long-time friend’s sense of community.

“Commitment to community service was in Don’s DNA. He was always thinking about what we could do as individuals and what the city could do to improve the quality of life of our residents. He devoted his life to serving this community.”

Don passed away in October 2021 after 53 years of service, including 33 as a member of the Renton Police Department and 20 as a city councilmember. He retired from the council in December 2019.

He was a founding member of Renton River Days, Renton Regional Fire Authority, and Communities In Schools of Renton. Don served as a Renton Rotary board member and helped create the city’s neighborhoods program. He provided food and other resources to ensure the success of REACH’s Center of Hope. Don was recognized and honored as Renton Chamber’s Citizen of the Year and earned a Meritorious Service Award from Renton Police Department.

With the senior center now bearing his name, Don’s tremendous commitment to our community and especially our seniors will continue to inspire others to do the same.

Recycle unwanted materials, motor oil, and oil filters

Renton residents have several ways to dispose of unwanted materials via city programs.

Clean Sweep, a collaboration with Republic Services, allows single-family residential customers to dispose of unwanted items for free. Garbage customers within Renton city limits can schedule a one-time pickup consisting of up to ten 32-gallon units.

Two bulky items, such as mattresses, sofas, or chairs, are also accepted. Hazardous waste, liquid waste, and items that can be recycled are not accepted.

Clean Sweep ends Dec. 31, 2022. For more information on size and weight restrictions and to schedule your pickup, visit rentonwa.gov/cleansweep or call Republic Services 206-777-6440.

The city’s Solid Waste Utility division has launched Shift Green. AutoZone and O’Reilly Auto Parts locations in the city will recycle motor oil and filters for free from residents and businesses. Using this service helps the economy and protects the environment.

Coulon Park to get upgrades

TWO RENOVATION PROJECTS will start this month in Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park.

The TRESTLE BRIDGE will be replaced with a clear-span steel bridge providing a viewpoint along the pedestrian trail and interpretive signage. In addition, the project will remove all 58 existing in-water piles and include new light penetrating decking to enhance fish habitat. Because emergency access will not be available during the project, the north end of the park from the turnaround to the pedestrian gate will be closed through March 2023.

The NORTH WATER WALK will undergo improvements to decking, pilings, guardrails, and picnic floats. The project will close the water walk, day moorage/finger piers, and picnic floats through September 2023.

Find more information on both projects at rentonwa.gov/currentprojects.

Our Renton / September 2022

Dare to prepare

September is National Preparedness Month

Are you prepared to be self sufficient for one to two weeks when disaster strikes? September is National Preparedness Month. We want you to “Be Ready in Renton.”

Emergencies and disasters are becoming more frequent, often occurring without prior notice. The resources you are accustomed to, such as electricity, Wi-Fi, and even your electronic devices, might not be accessible during a disaster.

So how can you be ready? Here are a few tips to follow:

Make a plan

• Have a plan for how you will respond, stay informed, and contact others during an emergency.

Build a kit

• Have suitable materials on hand for when a disaster strikes. To learn the basics of building a personalized kit. 

Get involved

• Take part in our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Our emergency management division is revitalizing the Renton CERT program with a new course at the end of September. During the seven-session course, participants will gain skills in light search and rescue operations, individual and home preparedness, disaster medical operations, and fire safety. Register using keyword “CERT”.

• Take a class! Renton Emergency Preparedness Academy (REPA) will have classes at Renton Technical College in spring 2023 on emergency preparedness.

Stay informed

• Get a NOAA Weather Radio, preferably a programmable one that lets you choose specific alerts. Conventional TV and radio stations are typically slower to broadcast alerts.

• Sign up for Alerts to your phone and email. Sign up for Alerts to your phone and email. It’s FREE!

• Before an emergency occurs, find your low-tech Neighborhood Information Center. Most schools in Renton School District have one of these bulletin boards at their main entrance. Go there for info when high-tech capabilities and the internet are not available.

Taking these steps will not only help you be more prepared for emergencies but will make our community more resilient.

Reduce waste going to landfills

Styrofoam & Document Shred Collection, September 17

The third and final mini-recycle event of 2022 will be held Saturday, September 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the RTC north parking lot at NE 6th Place & Monroe Ave. NE. Bring clean Styrofoam blocks (look for #6 or EPS inside the recycle symbol), bagged peanuts, and bubble wrap for recycling.

Document shredding is also available. Bring up to five boxes (size 12”x15”x10”) or equivalent in bags. Paper, blueprints, mail, photographs, and file folders accepted.

Food donations will be accepted and donated to local food banks. See details on our website.

Age Friendly Senior 50+ Resource Expo, September 30

Improve your independence, health, and quality of life at the Senior Resource Expo on Friday, September 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Renton Senior Activity Center, 211 Burnett Ave. N.

Browse from over 30 vendor exhibit displays and enjoy a variety of presentations on subjects such as health, finance, transportation, housing, and more.

Free transportation is available for Renton residents. Call Hyde Shuttle at 206-727-6262.

More info at rentonwa.gov/seniorexpo. 

Pre-registration available until event is filled.  Use keyword “expo” or call 425-430-6633.

Our Renton / July 2022

Renton River Days returns

As we move into summer, we ramp up activities and events, including music and concerts in our parks and a return of Renton River Days.

River Days, our annual family festival and community celebration, returns this July 22 and 23. This year’s theme is “On the Road Again.”

Several familiar River Days events and activities are back, and there are new ones too. Here’s a look at the schedule:

• July 14-24: take a Road Trip around Renton via a self-guided app that includes tiers of engagement and a chance to win prizes.

• July 22, 4:30 – 8:30 p.m., Piazza Park: enjoy live music and entertainment, Urban Market vendors, a craft beer & wine garden, and food trucks.

• July 22, dusk: "Encanto," a free family movie, Liberty Park

• July 23, 10 a.m., S. Third St: parade

• July 23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park: Antique & Classic Boat Show; free boat rides, boater education & safety

• July 23, 11:30 a.m.– 8:30 p.m., Piazza Park: enjoy live music and entertainment, Urban Market vendors, a craft beer & wine garden, and food trucks

•  July 23, 4:30 p.m., Houser Street Bridge: launch of rubber ducks into Cedar River from Houser Way pedestrian bridge

Find more information on these events online.

Movies, concerts, and family fun

 

Parks and Recreation Department’s summer fun is also back with a series of free outdoor movies, concerts, and family fun around the city.

July 11: Cantando y Jugando, Sunset Neighborhood Park, 11:30 a.m.
July 12: The Kennydales, Coulon Park, 7 p.m.
July 19: Gansgango Music & Dance Co., Tiffany Park, 11 a.m.
July 22, “Encanto,” Liberty Park, dusk.
August 1: Amazing Magic Show, Heritage Park, 1 p.m.
August 5: "Jungle Cruise," Kennydale Lions Park, dusk
August 13: "Spider-Man: No Way Home," Piazza Park, dusk
August 26: "Sing2," Thomas Teasdale Park, dusk
August 17: Danny Godinez Group, Sunset Neighborhood Park, 7 p.m.
August 31: Cory Wilds Band, Piazza Park, 7 p.m.

Renton History Museum offers free admission on the first Wednesday of the month. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Their current exhibit is “With This Ring,” a historical look at marriage in Renton.

The popular Renton Farmers Market is held every Tuesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Piazza Park through September 27.

Our Renton / June 2022

Family First Community Center taking shape

EXCITEMENT IS GROWING as Family First Community Center (FFCC) is taking shape.

Since late February, the FFCC site (next to Cascade Elementary School in Renton’s Cascade/Benson Hill area) has been graded, and underground utilities have been installed. In mid-May, the pouring of the first-floor slab was finished.

Since its annexation to the city in 2008, the Cascade/Benson Hill neighborhood has existed without a community center. This center is a result of our community recognizing a need and working together to provide a solution.

“The center is much needed in the Cascade/Benson Hill area as a community gathering place for health and recreational opportunities,” said Mayor Armondo Pavone. “This project is another example of our community coming together for the common good. I look forward to the center’s impact on the community.”

When complete in early 2023, the center will offer a unique combination of after-school programs and classes; youth and adult sports; group exercise; personal training; health education, cooking, and nutrition classes; and activities for infants, toddlers, and children. In addition, Renton School District will offer STEM classes, and HealthPoint will provide medical, behavioral health, and dental care to area residents. The center will help remove many of the transportation and financial barriers to accessing health care currently experienced by low-income families in the Cascade/Benson Hill community. It will also provide residents with easier access to new programs and care.

To make the center a reality, a partnership was formed that included the city, Doug Baldwin’s Family First Community Center Foundation, Renton School District, and HealthPoint. Baldwin, a former Seattle Seahawks player, experienced the positive impact a neighborhood center can have as a community gathering point for youth and adults.

This partnership launched a community fundraising effort totaling more than $14 million. The amount includes $4.4 million in two grants from the State of Washington, $4 million from the City of Renton, a $3 million grant from First Financial Northwest Foundation, $1 million from Family First Community Center Foundation, $338,000 from M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, $250,000 from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, $200,000 from the Premera Social Impact Fund, and donations from over 100 businesses, organizations, and individuals. In addition, Renton School District donated the land.

More information on the project is available on our website, including links to donate and subscribe to a monthly newsletter with construction updates at rentonwa.gov/ffcc.

Farmers Market opens June 7
 Tuesdays, 3-7 p.m., Piazza Park

RENTON’S FARMERS MARKET returns for its 21st season downtown on June 7, back at its familiar location: Piazza Park (233 Burnett Ave S.). Shop and enjoy the fun every Tuesday from 3 to 7 p.m. through Sept. 27.

The market brings some of the best Washington-grown flowers, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, meats and cheeses, wines, mead, ciders, and handmade crafts to the Renton community. Also back this year is the Kid’s Patch activity area, live entertainment supported by Renton Municipal Arts Commission, and tips from WSU’s Master Gardeners.

Eligible shoppers can utilize the SNAP Match program. SNAP/EBT shoppers’ purchases are matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $40 each market. This effectively doubles their buying power and provides additional revenue for Washington family farmers. The program is one of the most successful in the state.

Enjoy all this in a pedestrian-friendly environment. Logan Street, which runs between Piazza Park and Market West, will be closed to traffic during the market. Ample free parking is available in the nearby City Center Parking Garage (655 South 2nd St.).

Find more information on Renton Farmers Market on their website, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Our Renton / May 2022

New north-end trestle bridge at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park

Bond funding transforms city parks

In 2018, Renton City Council established the Community Advisory Committee to ensure our parks meet Renton’s needs. The committee worked to “identify important gaps in Renton’s parks, trails, and community facilities and recommend additional investments.” The committee identified major repairs and renovations to existing parks as the top priority and developed a project list.

So far, the city’s Parks Planning and Natural Resources Division has completed four bond projects. Four more are scheduled for this year.

Work started in April on a complete makeover of 60-year-old Kiwanis Park. New features include ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible walkways and entrances, a new playground, basketball court, ball field with a synthetic all-weather infield, updated backstop, covered dugouts, picnic shelter, paved parent plaza, restroom, and parking lot. The park is currently closed and expected to reopen in December.

Philip Arnold Park will also receive an ADA walkway and boardwalk, picnic shelter, paved parent plaza, basketball court renovation, a new playground for ages 2 to 12, picnic shelter, basketball court renovation, restroom, and improved site drainage and stormwater management. Work will begin after Labor Day, with completion set for early summer 2023.

Two other projects are located at Coulon Park. These projects are critical for the safety and preservation of the walking path and over-water walk.
The first replaces the north-end trestle bridge and removes all in-water pilings. A Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant will help fund the project. Work is expected to start in October, with completion scheduled for March 2023. The project will necessitate closing the north end of the park at the north cul-de-sac.

The second project will replace the north water walk’s concrete deck, wrap existing piles, replace timber components, paint light poles and guardrails, install new lighting, rebuild picnic floats, and refurbish tables and benches. Additional funding comes from a Washington State Direct Legislative appropriation, 2019 King County Proposition 1 Levy, and local funding. Construction is scheduled to start this August and take one year. The north water walk and day moorage will be closed during this time.

Parks Planning and Natural Resources is also completing two playground replacement projects at Kennydale Beach Park (completion scheduled for the end of May) and Cascade Park (scheduled to start in May with completion during the summer). These projects are funded through the Capital Improvements Fund.

You can learn more about these projects and follow their progress online.

 

Council Chamber update underway

A project to update the audio and visual equipment in the City Council Chamber at City Hall will take live city council meetings off Channel 21 for at least the month of May. It also means the meetings will not be live-streamed on the city’s website.

City Council meetings will be available via Zoom. The city will continue to post meeting videos on our YouTube channel. Instructions can be found at rentonwa.gov/council.

The project will install new software, cameras, microphones, and video displays in the chamber. We are looking to resume live broadcasts of city council meetings on Monday, June 6.

 

Clean Economy Strategy online Open House, May 25

It’s time to update our 2011 Clean Economy Strategy (CES) – CES 2.0.

Our first CES integrated sustainability objectives into the city’s practices, policies, and investments. The update will build on that foundation to create a plan that reflects the latest science, incorporates recommendations honed through work with dozens of peer cities, is tailored to Renton’s needs, and is shaped by community input.

Once complete, CES 2.0 will serve as a roadmap to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance environmental sustainability, and prepare for our changing climate. It’s a year-long, citywide effort encompassing all departments and relying on input from our residents.

Please join us for an online open house via Zoom on May 25, 6 to 8 p.m. For more information and to register, please visit RentonCES.com.